Category: Dental Services

When it comes to dental implants, patients often tend to get confused on whether to get zirconia implants or titanium implants. While the choice was simple until the 20th century, the advent of zirconia implants in 2007 has only put patients in a dilemma while getting dental implants. Titanium implants are still the most widely used dental implants. Zirconia implants on the other hand have not been in the market for too long to prove its worth against titanium implants, although the choice between the two could still be confusing. To get a brief overview of which implant is better than the other, let us delve deep into both the types.

Zirconia Implants:

Zirconia is the crystal form of Zirconium. Upon converting Zirconium to Zirconia, it becomes a ceramic. This is the reasons why marketers tend to market it as being ‘metal-free’. The root, the abutment, and the crown come in one single piece. This means that the dentist cannot alter the implant according to the requirement of the patient. However, the ceramic, when given the color of a tooth, perfectly resembles a tooth. At present, there is lesser known about Zirconia implants than titanium implants, since the former has not been in the market for too long, compared to the latter.

Titanium Implants:

Titanium implants have been in the market since 1960’s, and hence, a lot is known about their effectiveness. These are made of alloys of aluminium, vanadium and nickel. It is known to have immense strength, which is why patients usually opt for it. However, some patients complain of being allergic to the metallic nature of the implant, which usually comes from the nickel content in it.

Since the above general comparison might not have helped you in choosing the better implant, let us compare the two, feature-by-feature!

Aesthetics of the Implants:

Titanium implants perfectly suit most of the patients. However, in some instances, patients complain of having a gray line along the ridge of the tooth. This issue is not associated with zirconia implants. This is mainly because of the metal-free nature of the implant. The ceramic material looks perfectly natural and the bright white color that it exhibits, is something that patients often prefer over the visible gray line from titanium implants.

Osseointegration:

Osseointegration refers to the compatibility between the bone and the implant. In this context, it is tough to differentiate the two types of implants. Both are highly bio-compatible, meaning that they flawlessly integrate with the adjacent bones and gums. Titanium implants have reportedly lasted for decades with patients, while zirconia implants have not been around for long enough, to study its longevity.

Strength:

In this context, titanium implants clearly win over zirconia implants. Titanium implants are immensely strong, resist fractures and have high flexural features. Although zirconia implants are fairly strong as well, they are prone to fractures due to low elasticity.

Ease:

Titanium implants are much easier to place than zirconia implants, primarily because of the fact that dentists have been practicing it for a longer period of time. Also, the fact that titanium implants come in two pieces, gives dentists more control over the implant. The same cannot be said for zirconia implants, which come in one single piece.

Therefore, titanium implants are clearly the overall winner, excelling in strength, ease and placement. While zirconia implants only outweigh titanium implants in aesthetics, and merely match titanium implants in terms of osseointegration, your choice still depends on which aspects of a dental implant you value the most!

Recently, a story about toothbrushes and toilets have been making the rounds on the internet. Maybe you’ve heard about it.

The theory is, when the toilet seat is opened, even if the commode is several feet away, airborne germs from a toilet flush will infect your toothbrush with fecal bacteria. It sounds pretty scary, not to mention gross! As a result, you, along with many other people, are now making sure to close the cover of the toilet before flushing.

Unfortunately, while this may have some credibility, it’s not the main problem when taking good care of your toothbrush.

The real source of troublesome germs is the brush itself.

Studies have found that your toilet is one of the cleaner parts of your house. However, the job of your toothbrush is to remove bacteria from your teeth. Much of that bacteria ends up coating your brush.

Now if you have a strong immune system you should be fine. And quite honestly, keeping your toothbrush away from the toilet is not an effective way to keep it hygienic and free from bacteria. Although it can’t hurt…

Bacteria thrives on moisture. If you happen to use a brush that comes with

germs from the toilet are not the worst issue

one of those clear guards that snaps on over the bristles, don’t put it on after you brush and floss. If you want to see the ugly details of what can happen…go ahead and snap that guard on after each time you brush.

What the bacteria on your toothbrush really need in order to thrive is moisture. After about a week, you’ll begin to see black forming around the base of the bristles. This is bacteria. It would be safe to say, you probably don’t want THAT in your mouth!

So…what’s the best thing to do? if you really want to avoid germs on your toothbrush, the best thing you can do is keep it dry.

That’s it. Once you’re done brushing (and flossing) make sure you shake the excess water from the bristles…pat it even with a clean cloth and place it where it can continue to dry until the next time you need it.

If you’re curious about other ways to have a healthy mouth, that’s where West Airdrie is an expert! Click here or call 587 317 7713

In a previous blog, the topic of what serious dental risks people with diabetes face was addressed.

It was stated that those with diabetes can suffer an increase in having cavities, gingivitis and periodontal disease.

But the good news is, there are 4 important steps you can take, if you have diabetes, to ensure that cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis aren’t something you’ll have to worry as much about.

Control your blood sugar levels.

Make sure you’re following your doctor’s orders and limiting your intake as necessary. When you are tested for your levels (every 3 months) be sure to inform your dentist of the results. It’s important for your dentist to know these numbers too.

Brush and floss

Brush and floss your teeth!

As mentioned in the previous blog, this is the first line of defense against having problems develop as a result of diabetes. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Make sure you’re removing the plaque build-up that can lead to it turning in to tarter which then causes the other issues previously discussed.

Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.

You may also consider an electric toothbrush. But the head still needs to be changed on a regular basis. If you have trouble using just the floss, try using a floss holder.

See your dentist regularly.

Let your dentist know you have diabetes each time you visit. It may be helpful to also share your doctor’s contact information with your dentist as well. Keep your professional cleaning and checkup appointments so they can track any signs of gum disease early. You can also help by letting the dentist know if you see any signs of redness, irritation, or bleeding gums too.

Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2, diabetes is something that can be controlled. And while it will take a lifetime of attention, the result is you’ll feel the best you can and your teeth and gums will be in good shape too!

In addition to this topic, we’re pleased to offer a FREE report that provides information vital to forming good dental habits. Why not get your copy now? The Smart Patient’s Guide to Wisdom Teeth, is just a click away. And it’s absolutely FREE.

Dental health during pregnancy can be affected by morning sickness. Pregnancy (especially your first) can be hard enough as it is. The morning sickness…vomiting, retching, upchucking, puking, throwing up…whatever you call it, it can be horrible.

Extreme morning sickness can lead to damaged tooth enamel and an increased risk of tooth decay. This is thanks to the stomach acids that remain on your teeth after being sick.

The good news is there are some things you can do at home to prevent additional dental issues during your pregnancy as a result of morning sickness!

Then, after an hour, go ahead and brush your teeth, using a fluorinated toothpaste if possible.

If the act of brushing causes you to gag, consider using a toddler toothbrush. They typically have smaller heads than adult toothbrushes.

Finally, slow down and take your time brushing. If necessary, find some distractions (music, television, etc.).

Consider another brand of toothpaste if the taste causes you to retch or just use water and mouthwash until you can go back to regular toothpaste.

If you’re still having issues, please discuss this with your dentist. There may be more option to help you specific to your need.

In addition to this topic, we’re pleased to offer a FREE report that provides information vital to forming good dental habits. Why not get your copy now? The Smart Patient’s Guide to Wisdom Teeth, is just a click away. And it’s absolutely FREE.

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